Did you wake up early on a winter morning and realize that the water in your pipes is frozen solid? This can be a very frustrating issue to deal with, and it can also put your plumbing system in danger. Avoid burst pipes, indoor flooding and water damage by fixing the issue as quickly and safely as possible. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Atlanta, we offer premium commercial and residential services for local property owners including pipe repair, winterizing, maintenance and inspections. Here are some helpful tips on what you can do if your pipes freeze, and how you can keep your system flowing freely all winter long.
Use Towels and Warm Water
One of the easiest and safest ways to thaw out frozen pipes is to use towels soaked in warm water. This can help instantly raise the temperature of the pipes. While this method does work very well for exposed pipes that are within reach, those with frozen areas that are less accessible may need an alternative approach.
Open Your Faucets
It's important to open your faucets when thawing the frozen water. This provides an effective way for melted ice to flow through the pipes, and the movement of water will also likely improve temperatures and decrease air pressure. For this reason, many people leave their faucets dripping when during harsh winter weather as a preventative technique.
Always Put Safety First
Some people may try to use hair dryers, heat lamps or portable heaters to melt frozen water inside their plumbing system. While these methods may very well get the job done, be sure you are safe. Keep in mind that electricity and water don't mix very well. Mistakes made if using these items incorrectly could lead to electrocution, personal injury or electrical fires. If you are dealing with burst pipes or there is a chance of a leak or indoor flooding, it is best to avoid using a device that needs to be plugged into an outlet.
Winterize Your Plumbing System to Prevent Future Occurrences
Of course, the best way to discourage frozen pipes is to properly winterize your plumbing system. Disconnect garden hoses and keep outside faucets covered. Pipes can also be insulated, which will help to keep internal pipe temperatures better regulated. It is a good idea to schedule an inspection and maintenance service before freezing weather arrives each year, which will ensure that your pipes are properly insulated and ready to take on the challenges of the winter season.
Do You Need Help with Your Frozen Pipes? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing Today
Is it time for you to properly winterize your plumbing system? Has a frozen pipe caused a major leak or indoor flooding? Call the experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Atlanta. Our licensed and insured professionals are always ready to lend a helping hand. We even provide 24 hour emergency plumbing repair services for local customers. Contact our office for more details about our wide selection of services or to schedule an appointment with a certified plumber in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Brookhaven, Buckhead, Canton, Chamblee, Cumming, Decatur, Doraville, Duluth, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Kennesaw, Lawrenceville, Lilburn, Marietta, Milton, Norcross, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Smyrna, Stone Mountain, Suwanee, Tucker, Woodstock, Georgia or a nearby metro area neighborhood.